Seonhyeopmirang (1)
What do you mean by bad rumors?
My opponent is Inbong Warrior, a disciple of the Cheongsung Sect.
Should I call him Inbong Dojang?
Since the Cheongsung Sect follows the Daoist lineage.
Anyway, putting that aside...
"What do you mean by bad rumors? What rumors are you referring to?"
"Well, given the Cheongsung Sect's remote location in Sacheon Province, it's possible you haven't heard."
The Cheongsung Sect was located in Sacheon Province.
"Actually, there's a rumor that Inbong Warrior converses with ghosts and learned his martial arts from them."
"Pardon?"
What kind of nonsense is that?
"I only heard it from others myself, so I don't know the details, but I thought you should be aware of the rumor."
"I understand."
I said to him,
"You may go now. I'm confident in my own skills, and my guards are quite capable as well."
"Understood. Then I'll take my leave here. Safe travels."
He clasped his hands in a formal salute.
"I wish you martial fortune, Daehyeop."
"Thank you."
After sending Jigyeonghwa Gongja on his way, I scratched my cheek.
Conjuring ghosts...
Did Inbong Warrior have such rumors?
I searched my memories, but nothing came to mind.
All I recalled about him was that he'd risen to a fairly high position within the Cheongsung Sect.
But since we weren't close, there could be things I didn't know—or it might be a change brought by the future I'd altered.
"Shall I look into it for you?"
Seo-u Warrior, who was guarding me, asked.
"Pardon?"
"You seemed quite bothered by what you just heard."
I nodded at Seo-u Warrior's words.
"Yes, a bit. But first, I'll ask Sister Hyangok."
"Understood. Being from the same Sacheon region, she might know more."
A short while later.
By the time we arrived at Yeonpung Guest Inn, disciples of the Ami Sect had already gathered there.
"You've arrived?"
"Yes, Mother."
Mother led me over to someone.
"This is the sect leader of the Ami Sect. Sect Leader, this is my youngest son."
"I'm Eun Seo-ho. It's an honor to meet the sect leader."
I bowed properly in greeting, and she returned the courtesy with equal politeness.
"I lead the Ami Sect. It's a pleasure to meet the renowned Seonhyeopmirang Daehyeop in person. You're even more handsome and striking up close."
"Thank you. I hope you have a wonderful time."
After exchanging greetings with the sect leader, I approached Sister Hyangok.
"Sister Hyangok."
"Ah, there you are. You went to check on the temporary branch, didn't you?"
"Yes. That's why I was a little late."
In truth, it was because I'd visited the Ji Clan estate, but that wasn't something to mention here.
"I have something to ask you. Could you stop by my room briefly before you head back?"
"Sure."
"Then enjoy your meal."
Mindful of the lesson from the Yongbong Martial Tournament, I quickly headed up to my room.
The Ami Sect disciples wouldn't eat properly with me around.
"Whew, I'm starving."
As I rubbed my stomach and approached my room, Palgap called out.
"Young master! Not that one."
"Huh?"
"This way. Here!"
Palgap led me to an empty room.
And the moment he opened the door...
"...!"
I couldn't help but be startled.
The room was filled with a lavish spread of delicious food.
"Whoa! What's this?"
"The group leader anticipated you'd say you were hungry the moment you arrived and gave the order."
"I should thank Father. Where are Mother and Father?"
"They've already finished eating with the second young master."
"So just we haven't eaten yet?"
"Yes."
"Let's dig in quick! I'm famished."
I turned to the others waiting and said,
"You've all worked hard. Let's eat."
"Yes."
We ate our fill and returned to my room.
As I rested for a bit, I heard Ipil Warrior's voice.
"My lord, Miss Hyangok is here."
"Come in, Sister."
The door opened, and Sister Hyangok entered.
"Is the banquet over already?"
"Not quite, but it's winding down, so I came up early. We have to head back together later anyway."
"I see."
"So, why did you want to see me?"
At Sister Hyangok's question, I gestured to a seat.
"Please, have a seat. Tea?"
"No need. I drank plenty downstairs."
I smiled and sat across from her.
"Understood. Straight to the point, then. I heard a strange rumor about Inbong Warrior today and thought you might know something."
"Ah..."
Sister nodded.
"The one about him talking to ghosts and learning martial arts from them?"
"Yes. So you know."
Sister thought for a moment before speaking.
"Seo-ho."
"Yes, Sister."
"What did you think of his preliminary match?"
I recalled Inbong Warrior's preliminaries.
The Cheongsung Sect's martial arts were based on the Serupyo footwork technique.
True to its name—evoking willow leaves scattering in a whirlwind—it was fluid, formless, and free.
Thus, most Cheongsung Sect techniques shared this trait, with many incorporating the character for "wind" in their names.
"It showcased the essence of Cheongsung Sect martial arts perfectly."
"Exactly what I thought. But there's something odd... In the last Sacheon regional alliance tournament, he wasn't at that level."
Sacheon Province, surrounded by rugged mountains, fostered tight-knit alliances among its clans and sects.
They held an annual martial exchange tournament where everyone gathered.
"He was only first-rate back then."
"So he grew this much in just a year?"
"Yes."
Sister continued,
"That explosive growth is probably why the ghost rumors started."
"But what about the part where he converses with ghosts?"
"Not sure. Even I don't know about that."
Sister went on,
"Do I strike you as someone who loves gossip?"
"Hahaha. No."
"Then why ask me?"
"You're right. It was a foolish question."
At least one mystery was solved—but it birthed another.
Explosive growth in a single year.
How was that possible?
"Hyangok! Time to go!"
Someone called Sister Hyangok from outside.
It was Haecheong Divine Nun's voice.
"My master is calling. I'll be off."
"Yes, Sister. Let's head down together."
"Right, tournament tomorrow? Good luck."
"Thank you."
I went downstairs with Sister to see off the Ami Sect leader and the others.
"Thank you for the generous hospitality."
"Not at all. How could an uncle not celebrate his nephew's fine showing?"
"Hahaha, true, but the delicious meal alone is thanks enough. We'll take our leave."
"Safe journey."
We saw them off.
And I turned in early.
.
.
.
As usual, I awoke and immediately began my breathing exercises.
Feeling refreshed in body and mind, I rose and opened the window.
"Kkwi!"
Geumryeong climbed onto my shoulder and chirped.
"Yeah, I know."
Someone stood in the backyard below the window.
Disguised with transformation arts, but I recognized him—I'd glimpsed him before.
I hurriedly donned my robe and leaped out the window to the yard.
Tat.
I smiled quietly and clasped my hands.
- Oh dear, I meant to just cheer from afar, but you've spotted me.
I replied via sound transmission to my master's.
- Thank you for the support.
- You know the Set풍 Palace situation better than anyone, so I won't say more. Just please don't get hurt.
- Understood.
- Then I'll go. Lingering too long isn't wise.
Master vanished in an instant.
I had many questions, but nothing urgent enough for here.
This was Luoyang, the Murim Alliance's headquarters.
Even with transformation arts, caution was key.
Still, Master's visit just to cheer me warmed my heart, bringing an involuntary smile.
My resolve strengthened.
Time to warm up, then.
I ate breakfast and headed to the martial grounds.
Family cheers followed me en route, continuing even at the grounds.
"Eun Sub-branch Leader! Our best wishes!"
"Don't get hurt!"
"We pray for victory."
"Heh heh, I look forward to your prowess."
Sub-branch leaders from various merchant groups and many acquaintances cheered me on.
A touch burdensome, but it felt good.
I sat with family as usual. Geum Yeonhwa Daeju took the stage, signaling the matches' start.
.
.
.
Morning matches ended; lunchtime arrived.
Before eating, I detoured to the commercial district to check the temporary shop.
Even with my afternoon match, I was a merchant first.
Couldn't neglect my trade.
There too, crowds cheered.
"Give it your all in today's match!"
"Hahaha, thank you."
"Martial fortune!"
"Yes, thank you."
After inspecting the shop, I quietly asked Palgap,
"Was I this popular?"
Palgap chuckled at my question.
"You only just realized?"
"Uh... let's eat."
We returned to the inn for lunch, then back to the grounds.
Family was already there, having had their own gatherings.
The Murim Grand Assembly was nearing its end, so meetings had increased.
Afternoon matches began, and soon it was my turn.
"The final match of the day! First, Inbong of the Cheongsung Sect! His opponent is the warrior recommended by the Alliance Leader himself—Eun Seo-ho of the Eunhae Merchant Group!"
"Waaaaah!"
Cheers erupted.
I took a deep breath, stood, and looked at Father and Mother.
Their silent nods conveyed worry mingled with trust.
"Seo-ho."
I turned at Jin-ho hyung's call.
"Get up there. They're waiting."
"..."
Payback for before?
I smirked back.
"I'd have gone up already if you hadn't called."
"Tch!"
Jin-ho hyung clicked his tongue, and I laughed.
"I'll be right back."
With cheers from Palgap, Seo-hyang Sojeo, and my guards, I ascended the stage.
I affixed my seven badges and exchanged greetings with Inbong Warrior.
"Please go easy."
"Likewise."
Inbong Warrior's eyes gleamed with resolve as he replied.
Dung!
The drum sounded.
I drew my sword into ready stance.
Eunmu Sword gleamed sharply in my hand.
It changed form with its wielder, so I'd brought it confidently.
Without Taeeum Binghae Divine Art, it wouldn't reveal its true nature—no one would notice.
For this match, I'd use Cheonryu Gong and Cheonryu Ice Sword instead.
Inbong Warrior assumed his stance too.
A wind whispered in my ear, though none blew.
Soon, his form blurred into motion.
Pine scent tinged the air.
Cheongsung Sect's Songpung Swordsmanship.
Their famed Serupyo lived up to its reputation—unpredictably dazzling steps.
Chaeng!
But I wasn't one to be overwhelmed.
Chaeng! Chaeng! Chaeng!
Pretending to barely block, I calmly assessed him inside.
Got it.
Unpredictable, but not entirely patternless.
A few clashes revealed the rhythm. Spot it, and exploiting the gap was simple.
With our clear realm disparity, missing that would be unacceptable.
Kkagang! Chaeng!
I swung to his pattern, parrying his blade.
Inbong Warrior's eyes flickered.
He'd sensed the shift.
Rather than flick his sword away, I pressed long then struck aside, creating an opening.
And lunged.
Shuk!
In real combat, sword qi would be ideal—but friendly matches banned it.
Using it risked severe injury beyond mere badge loss.
Hence, no one had so far.
My blade feinted at his left leg badge, then pivoted upward, smashing the one on his right shoulder.
Peok!
"Waaaaah!"
Cheers rang out, including our Eunhae people's voices.
"The empire's handsomest! Young master Eun Seo-ho! Your beauty shines today! Let's make the legend of Cheokgwa Yeonggeo come true!"
"..."
Hey, Palgap. Be quiet.